NIA court acquits two men in 2021 Srinagar grenade blast case

The NIA Special Court discharged Adil Farooq Bhat and Imran Nazir Najar of all charges leveled under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, Indian Penal Code, and Arms Act in connection with the grenade blast that occurred in Srinagar nearly three years ago.

The court's decision hinged on the prosecution's failure to establish a credible case against the accused. Judges noted significant gaps and procedural lapses in the investigation that undermined the evidentiary foundation required to sustain conviction under the stringent UAPA provisions.

The August 2021 grenade attack in Srinagar had triggered a high-profile investigation by the NIA, the federal counter-terrorism agency. The case exemplifies the challenges law enforcement agencies face in assembling watertight cases against terror-related charges, particularly when investigative procedures contain deficiencies.

Both accused have now been released following the acquittal. The judgment underscores the judiciary's adherence to constitutional safeguards requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt, even in cases involving national security concerns.